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Tom Thibodeau Rivals Mark Cuban’s Take On The Play-In Games

SHENZHEN, Oct. 5, 2017 -- Tom Thibodeau, head coach of Timberwolves reacts during the NBA Basketball USA preseason basketball game between Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves in Shenzhen City of south China's Guangdong Province, Oct. 5, 2017. (Photo by Xinhua/Imago/Icon Sportswire) ****NO AGENTS---NORTH AND SOUTH AMERICA SALES ONLY****NO AGENTS---NORTH AND SOUTH AMERICA SALES ONLY****

Mark Cuban and Mavs star Luka Doncic recently criticized the NBA for upholding the new postseason play-in game fashion. Cuban later went on the record clarifying his statements, blaming COVID protocols as his reason for not accepting the play-in games. He even went as far as to say that in a “normal year” he would be a fan of the play-in games. After the criticism of Cuban died down a bit, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau came forward with a rivaling take.  He shared his opinion on why he thinks the play-in game is a good thing, even in this year of COVID protocols.

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Here is what Thibodeau had to say per Steve Popper of Newsday.

“I think there are a lot of benefits to it. And so, I guess it depends on what perspective you’re looking at it from. I thought Mark articulated that very well. He talked about initially he voted for it, all the benefits. And we saw that I think everyone felt the same way. And so I think we have to let it play out first and then assess it again. But I think a lot of teams being involved in important games, I think that that’s good for the league. I think you’re always concerned about that. And so let’s see […] how it plays out, but the initial thought of it I think is very good.”

The comments from Tom Thibodeau make a lot of sense. Seeing how things ultimately play out is what is in the best interest of the NBA. They will be able to see what works and what doesn’t and make proper revisions moving forward.

We all saw how competitive the play-in games were in the bubble. If the rule means adding more important games to the NBA, I think everyone should be on Thibodeau’s side of this one.


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